Snoring is a common problem that affects millions of people around the world. It can be a nuisance to both the snorer and their partner, and it can also be a sign of a more serious underlying health condition.
In this article, we will discuss the causes of snoring, the potential health risks associated with it, and the treatment options available.
What Causes Snoring?
Snoring occurs when the soft tissues in the back of the throat vibrate as you breathe. This can happen for a variety of reasons, including:
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Being overweight or obese: Excess weight can put pressure on the airway, making it more likely to collapse and vibrate.
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Having a large tongue or tonsils: These tissues can block the airway and cause snoring.
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Having a deviated septum: This is a condition in which the septum, the wall that separates the two nostrils, is not straight. A deviated septum can obstruct the airway and cause snoring.
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Drinking alcohol or taking sedatives: These substances can relax the muscles in the throat, making them more likely to vibrate.
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Sleeping on your back: This position can cause the tongue to fall back into the throat and obstruct the airway.
Health Risks of Snoring
Snoring can be a sign of a more serious underlying health condition, such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). OSA is a condition in which the airway is repeatedly blocked during sleep, causing breathing to stop and start. This can lead to a number of health problems, including:
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High blood pressure
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Heart disease
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Stroke
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Depression
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Type 2 diabetes
If you snore loudly or regularly, it is important to see a doctor to rule out OSA.
Treatment Options for Snoring
There are a number of treatment options available for snoring, including:
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Lifestyle changes: Losing weight, avoiding alcohol and sedatives before bed, and sleeping on your side can all help to reduce snoring.
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Over-the-counter devices: Nasal sprays, strips, and mouthpieces can help to open up the airway and reduce snoring.
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Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the underlying cause of snoring, such as a deviated septum or enlarged tonsils.
Conclusion
Snoring is a common problem that can be caused by a variety of factors. While it is often not a serious health concern, it can be a sign of a more serious underlying condition, such as obstructive sleep apnea. If you snore loudly or regularly, it is important to see a doctor to rule out OSA and discuss treatment options.
Dental Blog | Sunnyside Dentistry | Clackamas, OR dentist Dick Hikade, DDS at Sunnyside Dentistry has created this informative blog to help educate the community about dental concerns. Sunnyside Dentistry, 14210 SE Sunnyside Rd, Suite 200, Clackamas, OR 97015; (503) 451-5104; sunnysidedentistry.com; 7/16/2025; Page Phrases: dentist Clackamas OR;
